Entertainment: Scream Come True: Horror's Unlikely Box Office Triumph

Why it is the topic trending: The Unexpected Reign of Horror in Cinemas: Analyzing the Factors Behind the Genre's Box Office Success

• Horror movies are experiencing a significant surge in popularity and box office earnings in 2025.

• Several factors are contributing to this trend:

  • Audience Fatigue with Mainstream Genres: Superheroes, sequels, and reboots, which have dominated the box office in recent years, are reportedly becoming stale among audiences, creating an opportunity for other genres.

  • Significant Increase in Market Share: Horror films now account for a much larger percentage of North American ticket purchases compared to previous years (17% in 2025, up from 4% a decade ago), demonstrating a clear shift in audience preference.

  • Success of Recent Horror Releases: Box office hits like Sinners and Final Destination: Bloodlines, along with anticipated releases like The Conjuring: Last Rites and Five Nights at Freddy’s 2, are driving this growth.

  • Horror as a Reliable Genre: Cinema owners are recognizing horror as a dependable genre that can attract audiences and fill seats, especially when other genres may be underperforming.

  • Outlet for Contemporary Anxieties: Horror films historically provide a safe and cathartic way for audiences to cope with real-world anxieties such as pandemics, AI paranoia, and social issues.

  • Creative Freedom and Lower Budgets: The often modest budgets of horror films allow for greater creative risk-taking, attracting acclaimed directors and innovative storytelling.

  • Enhanced Cinema Experience: Horror movies are ideally suited for the immersive environment of a cinema, where darkness and a shared audience heighten the scare factor.

  • Appeal to Teenagers and Young Adults: Horror is a popular genre for younger moviegoers, especially those in the dating age range, as it offers a shared and often thrilling experience.

Why it is the topic trending: Horror's Unexpected Box Office Reign: Exploring the Genre's Rise as a Cinema Saviour

Overview: From Box Office Graveyard to Blockbuster Cemetery: Horror Movies Revitalize Cinemas

In a surprising turn of events, horror movies have emerged as a dominant force at the 2025 box office, providing a much-needed boost to cinema owners amidst audience fatigue with traditional blockbuster fare. This year, scary movies have significantly increased their share of North American ticket sales, indicating a growing audience appetite for the genre. The success of recent horror releases, coupled with anticipated films from popular franchises, has positioned horror as a reliable and profitable genre for theaters. Entertainment industry veterans attribute this resurgence to horror's ability to tap into contemporary anxieties, its creative freedom due to lower budgets, and the heightened immersive experience it offers in a cinema setting. With a diverse and dedicated audience, particularly among younger viewers, horror is proving to be an unlikely savior for the cinema industry.

Detailed findings: Unpacking the Horror Hit: Examining the Reasons Behind the Genre's Box Office Dominance

• Significant Market Share Growth: Horror movies accounted for 17% of North American ticket purchases in 2025, a substantial increase from 11% in 2024 and only 4% a decade prior, according to Comscore data.

• Key Box Office Successes: The article highlights Sinners and Final Destination: Bloodlines as examples of successful horror films in 2025. Sinners was reportedly the year's third highest-grossing movie in the US and Canada.

• Anticipated Horror Releases: The upcoming releases of The Conjuring: Last Rites and Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 are expected to further contribute to the genre's strong box office performance later in the year.

• Horror Fills a Void: Cinema owners like Brandt Gully recognize horror as a primary genre that can attract audiences and fill empty seats when other types of films might not be as appealing.

• Reflecting Contemporary Anxieties: Producers and analysts suggest that horror films serve as a safe and cathartic outlet for audiences to process contemporary anxieties arising from events like the global pandemic, fears about artificial intelligence, bodily autonomy, and social issues like resurgent racism.

• Creative Freedom and Lower Budgets: The lower production costs associated with horror films allow filmmakers greater creative freedom and the ability to take risks that might not be feasible with big-budget tentpole movies. This has attracted acclaimed directors to the genre.

• Horror as an "Accountant's Dream": Analysts note that horror films can be highly profitable due to their modest budgets and potential for significant box office returns, making them an attractive prospect for studios.

• Attracting Audiences Back to Theaters: Mike De Luca from Warner Bros. emphasizes that horror is a genre that successfully encourages people to leave their homes and return to the cinema experience, which is crucial for the industry's recovery post-pandemic.

• Enhanced Cinema Experience: The immersive environment of a dark cinema, shared with a large audience, significantly heightens the experience of watching a horror movie, making it a preferred genre for theatrical viewing.

• Rising Production of Horror Films: The number of new horror films announced by US producers has increased annually for the past three years, even during the Hollywood strikes of 2023, indicating a strong industry focus on the genre.

• Favorite Genre Among Young Moviegoers: Consumer surveys indicate that horror is the favorite genre among two-thirds of moviegoers aged 18 to 24.

• Appeal to Teenagers and Dating Audiences: Horror movies are a popular choice for teenagers, especially those dating, as they provide a thrilling and shared experience that can encourage physical closeness.

• Historical Significance of Horror: The article briefly mentions the long history of horror in cinema, dating back to the early days of filmmaking.

• Increased Critical Recognition: In recent years, horror films have gained more critical respect, with movies like Get Out receiving Academy Award recognition.

• Not All Horror is a Guaranteed Hit: The article notes that even within the successful genre, not every film performs exceptionally well at the box office, using M3GAN 2.0 as an example of a more modest opening weekend.

• Strong Summer Lineup: Cinema chains have a significant number of horror films scheduled for release during the summer, indicating continued confidence in the genre's appeal.

• The "Don't Go In There!" Factor: A key element of successful horror films is their ability to elicit visceral reactions from the audience, creating a fun and engaging cinema experience.

Key success factors of product (trend): The Elements Driving the Box Office Success of Horror Movies: Understanding the Genre's Resurgence

• Ability to Tap into Contemporary Anxieties: Providing a relevant and cathartic outlet for societal fears and concerns.

• Creative Freedom and Innovation: Allowing filmmakers to take risks and experiment with storytelling and themes due to lower budget constraints.

• Cost-Effectiveness: Offering a high potential for profit due to modest production budgets and strong audience turnout.

• Enhanced Theatrical Experience: Leveraging the immersive environment of a cinema to heighten the scares and create a communal viewing experience.

• Appeal to a Dedicated Young Audience: Attracting teenagers and young adults who are frequent moviegoers and enjoy the genre.

• Nostalgia and Franchise Appeal: Successful horror franchises continue to draw audiences eager for new installments.

• Critical Recognition and Genre Evolution: Increased critical acclaim has elevated the genre's status and attracted a wider audience.

• Variety of Subgenres: The diverse range of horror subgenres can appeal to different tastes within the broader audience.

Key Takeaway: Horror is Back on Top: Scary Movies Resurrecting Cinema Fortunes in 2025

At a time when traditional blockbusters are facing audience fatigue, horror films have unexpectedly emerged as a dominant force at the box office in 2025, driven by their ability to tap into contemporary anxieties, offer creative freedom, and provide a uniquely immersive cinema experience, particularly for younger viewers.

Main Trend: The Resurgence of Horror at the Box Office

Horror movies are experiencing a significant and unexpected surge in popularity and financial success in cinemas in 2025.

Description of the Trend: Scream Screens to Silver Linings: Horror Movies Lead the Cinema Comeback

This trend highlights the remarkable resurgence of horror films as a major driving force in the cinema industry's recovery. Amidst a landscape of underperforming blockbusters, scary movies are attracting large audiences and generating significant box office revenue, becoming unlikely saviors for theaters.

What Is Consumer Motivation: Understanding the Drivers Behind Horror's Popularity: Why Audiences Are Flocking to Scary Movies

• Seeking Thrills and Excitement: Horror offers a visceral and intense emotional experience that many viewers find entertaining.

• Cathartic Release of Anxiety: Scary movies provide a safe space to confront and process real-world fears and anxieties in a fictional context.

• Social Experience: Watching horror films in a cinema with others creates a communal and often interactive experience, with shared jumps, screams, and laughter.

• Escapism and Entertainment: Horror provides a temporary escape from the mundane or stressful aspects of everyday life.

• Enjoyment of the Genre's Conventions: Many viewers appreciate the tropes, suspense-building techniques, and creativity within the horror genre.

• Nostalgia for Horror Franchises and Styles: Established horror franchises and certain classic horror styles continue to attract dedicated fans.

• Teenage and Young Adult Appeal: Horror is a particularly popular genre among younger audiences looking for exciting and sometimes edgy entertainment.

• A "Date Movie" Experience: As mentioned in the article, horror films can be a popular choice for dates, offering opportunities for shared reactions and closeness.

What Is Driving Trend: Factors Fueling Horror's Box Office Dominance: Analyzing the Forces Behind the Genre's Resurgence

• Audience Fatigue with Superhero and Sequel Overload: A lack of fresh and engaging content in traditional blockbuster genres is creating an opening for horror.

• Consistent Delivery of Quality (Often Low-Budget) Films: Horror movies can often deliver effective scares and compelling stories without massive budgets.

• Creative Freedom for Filmmakers: The genre allows for more experimental and boundary-pushing storytelling.

• Effective Marketing and Distribution: Horror films often utilize targeted and impactful marketing campaigns, particularly online.

• Strong Word-of-Mouth: Successful horror films often generate buzz and encourage repeat viewings or recommendations.

• The Post-Pandemic Desire for Out-of-Home Entertainment: Horror offers a compelling reason for people to return to the cinema experience.

• The Genre's Timeless Appeal: Horror has been a staple of cinema since its inception and continues to resonate with audiences across generations.

What Is Motivation Beyond the Trend: Underlying Human Needs Driving the Appeal of Horror: Exploring the Deeper Reasons for Our Fascination with Fear

• The Need to Confront and Understand Fear: Horror allows us to safely explore and process our anxieties and fears.

• The Desire for Intense Emotional Experiences: Humans are often drawn to strong emotions, and horror provides a controlled and thrilling way to experience fear.

• The Seeking of Novelty and Excitement: Horror films offer a departure from the ordinary and provide a sense of heightened excitement.

• The Reinforcement of Social Bonds: Shared experiences of fear in a group setting can create a sense of camaraderie and connection.

• The Exploration of Morality and Taboo: Horror often delves into darker aspects of human nature and societal taboos, providing a space for reflection.

Description of Consumers Article Is Referring: A Broad Audience, with a Strong Core of Young Adults and Horror Genre Enthusiasts

• Consumer Summary: The Thrill-Seeking Cinema Goer: From Teenagers on Dates to Dedicated Horror Fans Seeking Intense and Communal Experiences.

  • Teenagers and Young Adults (18-24): The core demographic, drawn to the excitement, social aspect, and sometimes edgy nature of horror films, often as a popular choice for dates.

  • Horror Genre Enthusiasts: A dedicated fanbase that actively seeks out new and classic horror releases, appreciating the genre's conventions and innovations.

  • General Moviegoers Seeking Variety: Audiences who may be experiencing fatigue with other genres and are looking for a different and engaging cinema experience.

  • Individuals Looking for a Cathartic Release: Those who find that horror films provide a safe and entertaining way to process real-world anxieties and fears.

  • Groups of Friends: Horror movies are often enjoyed as a social activity with friends, enhancing the shared experience of being scared and reacting together.

• Detailed Summary (based on experience and article):

  • Who are them? Primarily a broad audience, but with a significant core of younger adults (18-24) and dedicated fans of the horror genre. It includes individuals looking for thrills, social experiences, and a release from everyday stress.

  • What kind of products they like? Horror movies across various subgenres (vampire, zombie, slasher, supernatural, psychological), including original stories and new installments in established franchises. They appreciate films with effective scares, compelling narratives, and a heightened cinema experience.

  • What is their age? The article explicitly mentions 18-24 year olds as a key demographic, but the appeal likely extends to older teenagers and young adults in their late 20s and 30s, as well as dedicated fans of the genre across various age groups.

  • What is their gender? Horror tends to have a broad appeal across genders, although specific preferences for subgenres might vary. The article doesn't specify gender differences in this trend.

  • What is their income? Likely a diverse range, from students and young professionals to established adults, as movie ticket prices are generally accessible. The success of low-budget horror films suggests that the target audience is not exclusively high-income.

  • What is their lifestyle? Includes students, young professionals, and individuals who enjoy going to the cinema for entertainment and social experiences. They are likely interested in pop culture and may follow trends in film and entertainment.

  • What are their shopping preferences in the category article is referring to? They likely research upcoming horror movie releases through trailers, reviews, and social media. They may be influenced by word-of-mouth and the reputation of specific horror franchises or filmmakers. Ticket purchases are often planned around social outings with friends or dates.

  • Are they low, occasional or frequent category shoppers? The article suggests that horror is a "primary film genre" and a favorite among young moviegoers, indicating that this audience likely includes frequent cinema attendees who prioritize horror releases. However, the broader audience might include more occasional moviegoers drawn in by specific films or the genre's current popularity.

  • What are their general shopping preferences-how they shop products, shopping motivations)? They are likely influenced by entertainment value, social trends, and peer recommendations. Younger demographics are often comfortable with online research and digital purchasing. Their motivations include seeking excitement, entertainment, social connection, and sometimes a cathartic release of emotions.

Conclusions: The Unexpected Reign of Fear: Horror Movies Secure Their Place as a Dominant Force in Contemporary Cinema

The resurgence of horror movies as box office successes in 2025 marks a significant shift in the cinematic landscape. In a market often dominated by familiar franchises, horror has tapped into a deep-seated audience desire for thrills, catharsis, and a shared cinematic experience. The genre's ability to adapt to contemporary anxieties, its creative freedom fostered by lower budgets, and its strong appeal to a dedicated young audience have collectively propelled it to the forefront of the box office. This unlikely rise highlights the enduring power of fear as a form of entertainment and underscores the importance of diverse storytelling in maintaining audience engagement with the theatrical experience.

Implications for Brands:

• Partnerships with Horror Film Studios: Brands targeting younger audiences could find synergistic opportunities through collaborations with horror movie releases.

• Themed Marketing Campaigns: Capitalizing on the popularity of horror by incorporating thematic elements into advertising and social media campaigns.

• Promotional Tie-Ins with Cinemas: Offering discounts or special promotions related to horror movie screenings to drive traffic and engagement.

• Creation of Horror-Related Content: Developing short-form horror content or interactive experiences on digital platforms to tap into the genre's fanbase.

• Sponsorship of Horror Film Festivals or Events: Aligning the brand with the horror community and reaching dedicated fans.

• Limited-Edition Horror-Themed Products: Creating collectible or limited-edition products tied to popular horror franchises or trends.

• Gamified Horror Experiences: Utilizing horror themes in games or interactive digital experiences to engage younger demographics.

• Targeted Advertising During Horror Movie Screenings: Reaching the engaged horror audience with relevant product or service advertisements in cinemas.

Implication for society:

• Reflection of Societal Anxieties: The popularity of horror can serve as a barometer of contemporary fears and concerns within society.

• Cathartic Outlet for Stress and Fear: Horror movies can provide a safe and entertaining way for individuals to process and release negative emotions.

• Shared Cultural Experiences: Horror films often become topics of conversation and shared experiences among friends and within social groups.

• Support for Independent Filmmaking: The lower budgets often associated with horror can provide opportunities for independent and emerging filmmakers.

• Evolution of Genre Conventions: The continued success of horror contributes to its evolution and the exploration of new themes and storytelling techniques.

Implications for consumers:

• Increased Availability of Horror Content: Moviegoers can expect a steady stream of new horror films in cinemas and on streaming platforms.

• Opportunities for Thrilling and Engaging Entertainment: Horror will continue to provide intense and often unique cinematic experiences.

• Shared Social Experiences at the Cinema: Horror movies remain a popular choice for group outings to the theater.

• Potential for Discovering Emerging Filmmakers and Storytellers: The creative freedom within the genre often leads to the emergence of new talent.

• A Safe Space to Explore Fearful Themes: Consumers can engage with and process anxieties in a fictional and entertaining environment.

Implication for Future:

• Continued Dominance of Horror at the Box Office: The trend suggests that horror will remain a significant and profitable genre in the near future.

• Potential for Hybridization with Other Genres: Expect to see more horror films blending elements of comedy, science fiction, or other genres.

• Increased Investment in Horror Production: Studios may allocate more resources to developing and producing horror content.

• Growth of Horror Streaming Content: Streaming platforms will likely continue to invest in original horror series and films to cater to audience demand.

• Evolution of Horror Tropes and Storytelling: Filmmakers will likely continue to find innovative ways to scare and engage audiences within the genre.

Consumer Trend (name, detailed description): The Fear Fanatic This trend describes the growing segment of moviegoers, particularly young adults, who actively seek out and enthusiastically support horror films, making it a dominant genre at the box office. They are drawn to the thrills, social experiences, and often the cathartic release that scary movies provide.

Consumer Sub Trend (name, detailed description): The Anxious Audience's Outlet This sub-trend highlights the appeal of horror films as a safe and entertaining way for audiences to confront and process contemporary anxieties and fears related to real-world events and societal concerns.

Big Social Trend (name, detailed description): The Search for Authentic and Intense Experiences In a world saturated with information and entertainment, there is a growing social trend towards seeking out more authentic and intense emotional experiences, which horror films can readily provide in a communal setting like a cinema.

Worldwide Social Trend (name, detailed description): The Global Appeal of Fear as Entertainment The fascination with horror as a form of entertainment transcends cultural boundaries, making it a globally popular genre that resonates with diverse audiences seeking thrills and psychological engagement.

Social Drive (name, detailed description): The Human Fascination with the Macabre and the Unknown A fundamental human curiosity and, for some, even a morbid fascination with death, the supernatural, and the unknown drives a portion of the audience towards the horror genre as a means of exploring these themes in a controlled environment.

Learnings for brands to use in 2025:

• Align with Authenticity: If targeting horror fans, ensure marketing efforts are genuine and respectful of the genre and its tropes.

• Embrace the Thrill: Marketing campaigns can leverage the excitement and intensity associated with horror to capture attention.

• Focus on the Social Aspect: Highlight the communal experience of watching horror movies in theaters with friends.

• Tap into Contemporary Anxieties (Responsibly): Subtly reference current social or technological anxieties that resonate with horror themes, but avoid being exploitative.

• Engage with Fandoms: Interact with dedicated horror fan communities online and at events.

• Consider Limited-Time or Experiential Activations: Create short-term, immersive horror-themed experiences that generate buzz.

• Use Humor Strategically: For certain horror subgenres, incorporating humor into marketing can broaden appeal.

• Target Younger Demographics: Recognize that 18-24 year olds are a key audience for horror and tailor messaging accordingly.

Strategic Recommendations for brands to follow in 2025:

• Explore Sponsorship Opportunities with Horror Film Releases: Partner with studios to gain visibility among the engaged horror audience.

• Create Integrated Campaigns that Extend Beyond the Cinema: Develop marketing initiatives that span social media, gaming, and experiential events to complement horror movie releases.

• Offer Exclusive Content or Early Access to Trailers for Loyal Customers: Reward fans of horror and the brand with special previews or behind-the-scenes content.

• Develop Themed Products or Services Related to Popular Horror Franchises: Create limited-edition items or experiences that appeal to the dedicated fanbase.

• Utilize Data Analytics to Understand Horror Audience Preferences: Leverage data to tailor marketing messages and offerings to specific segments within the horror fanbase.

• Consider Location-Based Entertainment Tie-Ins: Explore opportunities for haunted house attractions or escape rooms linked to popular horror movies.

• Support Emerging Horror Filmmakers or Independent Horror Projects: Align the brand with creativity and innovation within the genre.

• Monitor Trends in Horror Subgenres to Stay Relevant: Keep abreast of the latest developments and preferences within the diverse world of horror to ensure marketing resonates.

Final sentence (key concept) describing main trend from article (which is a summary of all trends specified), and what brands & companies should do in 2025 to benefit from trend and how to do it.

Horror movies have become a surprising box office force in 2025, driven by audience fatigue with other genres and a desire for thrills and catharsis, prompting brands and companies to strategically align with this trend through targeted marketing, partnerships with studios, and the creation of horror-related content to capture the attention of a large and engaged audience, particularly younger demographics.

Final Note:

• Core Trend: Horror's Box Office Reign: The Unexpected Dominance of Scary Movies in Cinemas.

• Core Strategy: Tap into Thrills and Anxiety: Aligning with the Emotional Drivers of Horror Audiences.

• Core Industry Trend: Genre Diversification in Film: The Shift Away from Over-Reliance on Superhero and Franchise Films.

• Core Consumer Motivation: Seeking Intense, Communal, and Cathartic Entertainment: The Reasons Behind Horror's Widespread Appeal.

Final Conclusion: Fear as Fuel: The Unlikely Box Office Triumph of Horror and Its Implications for Entertainment and Marketing

The remarkable success of horror movies in 2025 signifies more than just a passing trend; it represents a notable shift in audience preferences and the dynamics of the film industry. In a landscape often saturated with familiar formulas, horror has tapped into a primal human fascination with fear, offering a potent and communal cinematic experience. For brands and companies looking to connect with a large and enthusiastic audience, particularly the coveted younger demographic, recognizing and strategically leveraging the enduring appeal of horror presents a significant opportunity. By understanding the motivations behind this trend and engaging authentically with the genre's dedicated fanbase, brands can forge meaningful connections and capitalize on the unexpected reign of fear at the box office.

Core Trend Detailed: The Enduring Appeal of Fear: Examining Why Horror Movies Are Slaying at the 2025 Box Office

The core trend is the significant resurgence and dominance of horror movies at the box office in 2025. This isn't a fleeting phenomenon but a clear indication of changing audience preferences and the enduring appeal of fear as entertainment. Several factors contribute to this, including audience fatigue with superhero fatigue, the lower production costs allowing for creative freedom, the cathartic release horror offers for contemporary anxieties, and the unique immersive experience of watching scary movies in a cinema. This trend showcases the resilience and adaptability of the horror genre and its ability to connect with a broad audience, particularly younger demographics seeking thrills and social cinematic experiences.

Key Characteristics of the Core Trend:

• Significant increase in box office market share for horror films in 2025.

• Success of both original horror stories and new installments in popular franchises.

• Horror is being recognized by cinema owners as a reliable genre to attract audiences.

• Lower budget films in the genre are achieving significant financial success.

• The trend is attracting both dedicated horror fans and general moviegoers seeking variety.

• Horror provides a communal and heightened experience best enjoyed in a cinema setting.

• The production of horror films has been steadily increasing.

Market and Cultural Signals Supporting the Trend:

• Audience fatigue with superhero movies, sequels, and reboots.

• Increased discussion and awareness of societal anxieties related to global events, technology, and social issues.

• The popularity of horror content across various platforms, including streaming services and video games.

• The enduring appeal of classic horror tropes and the continuous innovation within the genre.

• A strong sense of community among horror fans online and at conventions.

How the Trend Is Changing Consumer Behavior:

• More frequent visits to cinemas specifically for horror movie releases.

• Increased engagement with horror-related content and discussions online.

• Potential shift in spending habits towards cinema tickets for horror over other genres.

• Greater openness to supporting original horror stories and independent filmmakers.

• Younger audiences are driving attendance and influencing the genre's popularity.

Implications Across the Ecosystem:

• For Brands and CPGs: Opportunities for targeted advertising and partnerships within the horror entertainment space.

• For Retailers: Potential increase in sales of horror-themed merchandise and related products.

• For Consumers: A greater variety of horror films to choose from in cinemas and on streaming platforms, catering to different tastes and preferences within the genre.

Strategic Forecast:

• Horror is likely to remain a dominant force in the box office for the remainder of 2025 and beyond.

• Studios will likely continue to invest in horror production, recognizing its profitability.

• Expect more diverse and innovative storytelling within the genre to cater to evolving audience tastes.

• The lines between horror and other genres may continue to blur, leading to more hybrid films.

• The success of horror in cinemas may influence the types of content that streaming platforms prioritize.

Areas of Innovation (Implied by Article):

• Original Storytelling in Horror: The success of Sinners, an original vampire story, highlights the audience's appetite for fresh ideas within the genre.

• Creative Risk-Taking on Lower Budgets: Filmmakers are using the freedom afforded by smaller budgets to explore unconventional narratives and stylistic choices.

• Blending Horror with Social Commentary: Films like Get Out demonstrate the power of horror to address relevant social issues in an engaging and thought-provoking way.

• Utilizing Nostalgia Within Horror: The upcoming reboot of I Know What You Did Last Summer suggests a trend of revisiting and reimagining classic horror concepts for modern audiences.

• Immersive and Interactive Cinema Experiences: While not explicitly stated, the emphasis on the theatrical experience suggests potential for further innovation in creating immersive horror screenings.

Final Thought: Fear's Final Act: Horror Rewrites the Box Office Script

Ultimately, the surprising triumph of horror at the 2025 box office serves as a compelling narrative in the ever-evolving story of cinema. In a landscape often dictated by superhero sagas and franchise fatigue, the enduring and adaptable nature of horror has captivated audiences, proving its power to not only thrill and scare but also to draw moviegoers back to the communal experience of the theater. This resurgence underscores the genre's uncanny ability to tap into the anxieties of the moment, offering both a cathartic release and a darkly entertaining mirror to society's fears. As studios and exhibitors take note of this unexpected victory, it's clear that horror will continue to play a significant role in shaping the future of the film industry, promising a continued stream of inventive and terrifying tales for eager audiences.

Source: https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3317187/killing-it-box-office-horror-movies-become-unlikely-cinema-saviours